Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf Recipe: A Delicious Treat
Welcome to the wonderful world of baking with Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf. This tasty recipe is the perfect mix of rich flavours and moist texture. It’s great for afternoon tea treats and desserts. Making this delicious British loaf at home is easier than you think.
This recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. It will surely bring joy and satisfaction. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning loaf. It captures Mary Berry’s skill in baking. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with a fabulous treat? Let’s start with this amazing recipe!
Introduction to Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf
Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf brings classic British baking to life. It’s a blend of rich coffee flavour and crunchy walnuts, easy for anyone to make. Enjoy a slice that is moist, tender, and full of joy.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe shines with its simple elegance. You’ll find the ingredients in any kitchen, making your baking day easy. The ground coffee and walnuts add depth and texture. Serving it up, you’re sure to impress at any occasion, thanks to Mary Berry’s touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Its adaptability is amazing. This loaf fits perfectly, from a cosy tea time to celebratory gatherings. With captivating flavours and looks, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy it with tea or as a shared dessert, adding sophistication to your table.
Ingredient | Weight / Quantity |
---|---|
Self-raising flour | 175g |
Salted butter | 150g |
Caster sugar | 150g |
Ground coffee | 1½ tbsp |
Ground walnuts | 50g |
Medium eggs | 3 |
Caster sugar for coffee syrup | 50g |
Instant coffee for coffee syrup | 1 tbsp |
Portion of Cream Cheese Frosting | ½ quantity |
Whole or halved walnuts for caramelisation | 50g |
Ingredients Required for the Loaf
Making Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf is simple. You need dry and wet ingredients. Together, they ensure the cake’s texture and flavour are perfect. It’s moist, tastes rich, with deep coffee notes and crunchy walnuts.
Dry Ingredients for a Perfect Texture
The dry ingredients help the cake rise and hold its shape. Include these:
- 200g self-raising flour
- 200g light brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients to Enhance Flavour
Wet ingredients add moisture and make the loaf tasty. You will need these:
- 200g butter (salted or unsalted)
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee dissolved in water or coffee essence
- Optional: Vanilla extract for extra flavour
Add-ins for Extra Delight
Add-ins like toasted walnuts boost texture and flavour. They make the cake more enjoyable. Include these for extra delight:
- 60g of chopped and toasted walnuts
- Optional: Dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist
Using these ingredients makes a moist, delicious loaf. It perfectly mixes coffee and walnuts. For more cake ideas, check out this coconut loaf recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking
Making Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf is easy and fun. Following the correct instructions makes a tasty loaf everyone loves. Let’s start making it.
Preparing the Oven and Loaf Tin
Start by heating your oven to 180°C. While it’s heating, get your loaf tin ready. Grease it and use parchment paper to line it. This helps the loaf not stick and makes getting it out simple.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, mix 225g of margarine and sugar until it’s fluffy. Add four eggs beaten and 1½ tablespoons of instant coffee that’s been mixed with hot water. Then slowly mix in 225g of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix softly so the batter stays light.
Baking Time and Cooling Tips
Put the mixture into the tin and level the top. Bake it in the oven you heated for about 45 to 50 minutes. Check if it’s done with a skewer – it should come out clean. Let the loaf cool in the tin for 10 minutes first. Then put it on a wire rack to cool off completely. Cooling it right gets you the best texture and taste.
For detailed baking instructions, and for a delicious loaf, make sure to follow each step carefully.
Expert Tips for the Best Mary Berry Coffee and Walnut Loaf
To make the perfect Mary Berry Coffee and Walnut Loaf, follow pro baking tips. These details can improve your loaf’s taste and texture. Here’s what to focus on to make it amazing.
Choosing the Right Coffee
The coffee you pick is key to your loaf’s flavour. Use strong brewed coffee to boost the overall taste. Choose a medium to dark roast for richness, or try instant coffee for simplicity. Yet, espresso is best for a full flavour.
Importance of Toasting Walnuts
Toasting walnuts can bring out a stronger nutty flavour in your cake. This process makes them oilier and crunchier. Spread them on a tray and bake until golden. This adds delicious texture and taste that matches the coffee beautifully.
Avoiding Common Baking Mistakes
There are some usual baking errors to dodge for a great loaf. Don’t overmix; it makes the loaf dense. Mix until just combined for a fluffy result. Also, use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother mix. These tips help you achieve the perfect coffee and walnut loaf.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing your coffee walnut loaf right means it stays yummy longer. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps its flavours and moisture for up to five days. Want to enjoy it later? Freeze slices wrapped in cling film. They’ll keep for up to three months without losing their taste.
How to Store Your Loaf
For the freshest loaf, here’s what to do:
- Let the loaf cool completely before wrapping.
- Use an airtight container to keep moisture out.
- For keeping it longer, wrap it in cling film and use a freezer-safe bag.
Ideal Pairings and Accompaniments
The coffee walnut loaf goes great with coffee or tea. Its rich taste compliments the warmth of your drink. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack. Want to make it special?
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A coffee glaze for a fancy touch
These additions make your dessert tastier and prettier. They’re sure to impress your guests. Leftovers can turn into a charming trifle. This gives you a new way to enjoy the loaf. For more tasty recipes, check here.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf is a beloved classic. It combines flavours and textures in a delightful way. It is perfect for any dessert occasion, from small family gatherings to big celebrations. This recipe is easy to follow, making it great for those new to baking.
There are many ways to make a cake, including the creaming method and all-in-one techniques. Every baker adds their own touch. Influences come from famous chefs like Nigel Slater, Nigella Lawson, and Ree Drummond. Yet, Mary Berry’s loaf stands out for its simple elegance. It lets bakers personalise it with different ingredients and icings.
Thanks to expert tips, anyone can make this tasty treat with confidence. Enjoying a slice brings joy and a piece of British baking tradition. So, try making the Mary Berry coffee walnut loaf. It could become a favourite in your collection of recipes.
FAQ
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee in Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf?
Yes, instant coffee granules work fine. But for the best taste, dissolve them in hot water first. This creates a strong coffee essence for your mix.
How do I ensure my Coffee and Walnut Loaf stays moist?
Use room temperature unsalted butter. Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dry cake. Also, stick to the exact baking time.
What are some optional add-ins for the Coffee and Walnut Loaf?
Try chocolate chips, dried fruits, or vanilla for extra flavour. Toasted pecans or hazelnuts are great walnut substitutes too.
How long does Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf last?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap slices in cling film and freeze for up to three months.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free flour blend that includes a raising agent. This helps the loaf rise properly.
What’s the best way to serve Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Loaf?
It’s perfect with coffee or tea. Try it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or vanilla ice cream for something extra special.
Can I make the Coffee and Walnut Loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake it a day before. Just ensure it’s stored correctly to keep it fresh.